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Universal Design for Learning (UDL) Implementation
Home > What does UDL look like? Introducing The UDL Gears > Why the UDL Gears were created and how to use them

Why the UDL Gears were created and how to use them

Universal Design for Learning is a framework that is discussed around the world. Because the framework has so much information in it, it can be misunderstood and misinterpreted. Unfortunately, this means the depth of its potential impact can be lost. To solve this, The UDL Gears were designed to clarify the recognized mindset, skills, and practices to fully apply the UDL framework.

In the graphic, each idea is a cog on the edge of the gear. This is to give life to the interactions necessary between the mindset, skills, practices and the UDL Guidelines. In a machine, if a cog on the side of a gear is missing, the machine still works but it is not as effective. The same is true with UDL. All of these items are interconnected.

The UDL Gears are based on literature (research, books, and gray) from around the world and purposefully use language that can be understood and applied across languages and cultures.

There are several ways this information can be used by individuals and organizations (e.g., school districts, state departments of education, universities/university programs, funders, foundations, training organizations, or any other organization interested in UDL):


Please cite as
Nelson, L. L. (2023, May 24). The UDL Gears. https://theudlapproach.com/theudlgears